The UNLV Runnin’ Rebels basketball program has a storied history, highlighted by their dominance in the late 1980s and early ’90s under Jerry Tarkanian, culminating in a national championship in 1990. However, since those glory days, the program has struggled to maintain national relevance, cycling through multiple head coaches and failing to establish a consistent identity.

Now, as another offseason unfolds, the critical questions that need to be addressed revolve around direction and identity:

1. What type of program does UNLV want to be?
   Are they striving to return to national prominence, competing with top-tier programs for elite recruits? Or are they shifting toward a more sustainable model, building around player development and transfers?
2. What style of play defines UNLV?
   Historically, the Runnin’ Rebels were known for their up-tempo, high-pressure style of basketball. Is that the direction the current coaching staff wants to lean into, or are they adjusting to modern trends like positionless basketball and heavy reliance on three-point shooting?
3. Can UNLV establish stability in coaching and recruiting?
   Frequent coaching changes and roster turnover have hindered the program’s ability to build momentum. Is this the offseason where they solidify a long-term vision and start constructing a foundation for sustained success?
4. How does UNLV compete in today’s college basketball landscape?
   With NIL deals and the transfer portal playing massive roles in roster construction, is UNLV positioned to leverage these tools effectively, or will they continue to fall behind programs that have adapted more quickly?

Ultimately, UNLV fans need to ask: Is the goal to return to national prominence, or is the program content being a competitive mid-major with occasional NCAA Tournament appearances? 

The answers to these questions will determine whether the Runnin’ Rebels are on the path back to relevance or continuing to search for an identity.